When I was at ISU working on my bachelor’s in social work, I remember one of my professors sharing about her experience working with families in the Appalachian Mountains.  She talked about the foods that the families prepared and offered her, some of them being a little questionable.  She talked about how she used that food as a way to connect with others, pointing out that food is universal; no matter what culture you find yourself in, you can always bond over food.

I was reminded of this a couple of times this week.  We had our first meeting of “Cuisine Queens”, a Chix (women’s ministry) small group that I’m facilitating this semester as an opportunity for women to come together around trying different ethnic foods.  We were a small group this week as we tried Thai food together.  Wendy and Stephanie are close friends of mine, and Laura was new to me.  The four of us shared some of our personal stories and explored our common love of food.  I found that Laura and I both have a collection of cookbooks, and she shared a tip for making apple pies.  It was a wonderful evening, and I left with my belly full of pa-nang curry and my spirit refreshed by the company of women.

And yesterday I went to Jill’s house to cook with her.  Cooking isn’t her area of expertise, and she wants to have more recipes that she can whip up for her family.  We worked together in the kitchen and talked about food and life, finally sitting down to a meal together.  It was a great time spent with another dear friend.

Food and friends.  Two of my favorite things coming together.